The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province from September 23 to October 5.

The Punjab Home Department issued the notification under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898. The order immediately restricts public gatherings across Punjab.

Under the notification, five or more people cannot gather in public places, roads or open spaces. The restrictions also cover political rallies, processions, sit-ins and demonstrations.

Public Gatherings and Weapons Banned

The order also prohibits carrying or publicly displaying weapons at public places.

Authorities have also barred people from inviting or encouraging others to join gatherings declared unlawful under the notification. Violations may lead to legal action.

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The restrictions apply across Punjab during the specified period. Officials have cited security concerns behind the decision.

Weddings and Religious Activities Exempted

The Section 144 restrictions do not cover several routine and essential activities.

These include wedding ceremonies, funeral prayers and burials. Routine gatherings at mosques, imambargahs and other places of worship are also exempt.

Courts, government offices and official institutions can continue their activities. Events held with formal administrative permission are also exempt from the restrictions.

Security Personnel Exempt From Restrictions

Law-enforcement personnel, intelligence officials and security agencies will remain exempt while performing official duties.

The Punjab government has directed the relevant authorities to implement the notification across the province.

The latest order comes amid heightened security measures in Punjab. The provincial government has also sought additional security support in several districts ahead of planned political activity in Islamabad.